The Philadelphia Zoo is an established and nationally recognized zoological garden. Residing near the University district and near major thoroughfares, zoo parking and access was becoming a concern.

In addition to the natural increase in traffic (motor and pedestrian), the Zoo had recently launched the "Zoo Balloon" a joint promotion sponsored by the Philadelphia affiliate of ABC TV. The "Zoo Balloon" quickly became part of the daily news as it was strategically integrated with weather reports and special events.

The successful promotion accelerated the need to enhance Zoo access and parking.

Synterra, Ltd. provided planning, recommendations and cost/economic analysis as part of a study to identify and improve parking and access to the Zoo. Our report provided analysis of the existing streetscape conditions around the Zoo and recommendations for improving the entire external approach experience for visitors and passing traffic.

The overall study focused on Girard Avenue, 34th Street, Zoological Drive and Lansdowne Drive. An analysis of parking areas related to cars, buses and bus drop-off areas were performed in this study.

Photo renderings of existing conditions were presented alongside proposed streetscape designs so that Zoo officials could see exactly what the completed plan would look like.